Jerry Allen didn’t know that. The Anderson resident said Jones came knocking on his door a few weeks ago looking for work. Allen said he hired Jones and paid him $900 to cut down a tree in his front yard. He also gave him a $3,000 advance to pave the driveway.

At first, Allen said, everything seemed okay.

“These two guys showed up and started on the tree.”

But those men never finished the job and Jones eventually disappeared.

“They didn’t come back and I never have seen him since,” said Allen. “I feel embarrassed.”

He said his neighbor across the street also hired Jones and has unfinished work as well.

“I should’ve realized off the bat because you watch it on TV; see other people being taken $3,000 or $4,000. I don’t know my mind just went blank,” he said. “That’s my hard luck story and I’m embarrassed about it and I hope he doesn’t take anybody else.”

If you feel like Jones has scammed you, call your local authorities and report it.